Where do We Find Our Graduates?
August 28, 2009 by ProGrad · Leave a Comment
ProGrad recently held another assessment day in Sydney. The 40 recent university candidates were invited due to their success on a telephone interview held the week before. ProGrad recieves over 500 applications each week in Sydney and Melbourne from graduates who are looking to get into a business to business sales career. So how do we find our superstar graduates and how do people become aware of what ProGrad do? The team at ProGrad aim to market and spread the word in a number of ways.
Firstly, we post each of our current job opportunities across internet job sites including mycareer, careerone, seek and graduatejobs. ProGrad also contacts universities, graduate fairs and career fairs with an aim of speaking to candidates that are near the completion of their degree.
ProGrad also aims at informing graduates with the use of social media including our mini websites, Facebook page, Flickr page and Twitter.
If you are interested in becoming a ProGrad graduate, please call us directly on 02 8235 8300 or visit ProGrads main webpage at www.prograd.com.au
Your must-know guide to landing your first job
June 23, 2009 by ProGrad · Leave a Comment
Published: 12 September 200, www.mycareer.com.au
Once upon a time, graduates could take their pick of top jobs. But with a degree now considered the minimum qualification by many employers, starting a career is more competitive than ever.
According to Cheryl Hill, national manager of business support at Mosaic Recruitment, the first thing graduate job seekers need to do is keep their career options open - your core knowledge and skills are likely to be suited to a range of jobs in today’s rapidly changing workplace.
“Take the time to evaluate your abilities, explore your career possibilities, and find out what you’re truly passionate about,” she says. “Then speak to your university career councillor or a recruitment agent to determine which career path and employers to pursue.”
When it comes to preparing a CV that stands out from the crowd, Hill recommends tailoring it to the job you’re applying for and emphasising your commitment, energy and enthusiasm.
“Details of part-time or casual jobs, extra curricular activities, and club or society memberships are all valuable achievements,” she says. “Don’t sell yourself short just because your professional experience is limited - give employers a well-rounded view of your talents by including all relevant experience to date.”
And for a head start in the CV stakes, try listing your volunteer history. “Committing your personal time to a cause you feel passionate about demonstrates your values, morals, and ethics,” says Hill. “It also shows your willingness to go that extra mile, which is something employers look for.”
These days, all employers want conscientious go-getters - so what you wear and how you present yourself is often as important as your grades. To this end, choose an outfit that’s appropriate for the job you’re interviewing for, and for maximum impact, pay attention to your facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice.
“Research the company you’re applying for, or better still, anticipate the questions you might be asked and practice your answers in mock job interviews with friends,” says Hill. “Also consider your strengths and weaknesses in advance, and prepare a list of questions to ask your prospective employer.”
Finally, don’t forget that all job interviews are learning curves. “Professional rejection should never be taken personally,” says Hill. “After all, everyone’s had to apply for their first job at some point.”
Sophie
For more information relating to graduate careers, please contact ProGrad directly on 02 8235 8300 or visit out website www.prograd.com.au